American Society of Hirudotherapy

Antithrombotic effect of piyavit, a substance from the medicinal leech (Hirudo medicinalis), containing prostanoid and destabilase fractions

Pharmacology article published in Biokhimiia (1995)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Preclinical (animal)Salivary PharmacologyDrug DevelopmentBaskova IP, Zavalova LL, Basanova AV, Aquejouf OM, Azougagh-Oualane F, Doutremepuich C · Biokhimiia, 1995

Abstract

The protective antithrombotic effects of piyavit, a novel pharmacological preparation from the medicinal leech, its water extract concentrated and diluted 1600-fold, the piyavit fraction containing leech prostanoids and highly purified destabilase, epsilon-(gamma-Glu)-Lys-isopeptidase isolated from the medicinal leech (Hirudo medicinalis), have been studied. All the preparations under study inhibited clot formation in rat mesanterium arterioles stimulated by laser energy, contained leech prostanoids immunoenzymatically identified as 6-keto-PgF1 alpha and inhibited platelet aggregation induced by ADP. The putative mechanism of their antithrombotic effect is discussed.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Publication typeEnglish AbstractJournal Article
Indexed MeSH termsAnimalsBiological FactorsEndopeptidasesFibrinolytic AgentsLeechesMaleMesenteric ArteriesPlatelet Aggregation InhibitorsProstaglandinsRatsRats, WistarThrombosis

Summary

Piyavit (prostanoid + purified destabilase fractions from Hirudo medicinalis) inhibits laser-induced thrombus formation in rat mesenteric arterioles and platelet aggregation, with 6-keto-PgF1α identified as the active prostanoid.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This study examined the antithrombotic effects of piyavit, a pharmacological preparation from the medicinal leech Hirudo medicinalis, along with its water extract, a prostanoid-containing fraction, and purified destabilase (an isopeptidase), using a laser-induced thrombosis model in rat mesenteric arterioles. All preparations inhibited clot formation, contained prostanoids identified as 6-keto-PgF1 alpha, and inhibited ADP-induced platelet aggregation. For ASH's domain, this study is directly relevant as it investigates leech-derived bioactive substances with antithrombotic properties, contributing to understanding of the leech secretome's pharmacological potential. However, the study is an animal-model investigation using experimental thrombosis, and the abstract does not provide human clinical data, dosing specifics, safety information, or regulatory status; it also does not involve live leech therapy, and results may not translate directly to hirudotherapy practice.

Citation

Antithrombotic effect of piyavit, a substance from the medicinal leech (Hirudo medicinalis), containing prostanoid and destabilase fractions.

Baskova IP, Zavalova LL, Basanova AV, Aquejouf OM, Azougagh-Oualane F, Doutremepuich C · Biokhimiia, 1995

DOIPubMed

Added to ASH library: May 26, 2026 · Site last updated: June 18, 2026

This website provides educational information and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Medicinal leech therapy carries clinically meaningful risks and should be performed only by qualified clinicians under institutionally approved protocols. FDA 510(k) clearance for medicinal leeches is limited to specific indications; investigational and off-label discussions are labeled accordingly. For patient-specific guidance, consult a qualified healthcare provider.